What is monozukuri?

The definition of “monozukuri”

The literal translation of “monozukuri” is “making things,” more specifically, “manufacturing.” This word is often used when describing Japanese-style manufacturing processes such as kimono (traditional clothing), washi (traditional handmade paper) and tougei (ceramics). However, the word has a much broader meaning than “manufacturing.” It also includes inherited skills, knowledge, intangible qualities, passion and work ethic. Some say that monozukuri cannot be fully and literally translated into other languages as it includes cultural connotations. Hence, its meaning varies depending on people.

A policy to revive the manufacturing industry

Although the concept of monozukuri has existed for a long time, this word has come into use exponentially after the government set up the council of monozukuri (“monozukuri kondankai”) and enacted the law to promote the manufacturing industries, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Japanese SMEs have been on the decline since the burst of the Japanese financial bubble in the 1990s. Consequently, the government needed to reaffirm Japan’s strength as a manufacturing powerhouse.

Moreover, the traditional craft industry also has declined relatively. The market size peaked in 1983 at 541 billion yen, and then its production decreased to 102 billion yen in 2015. Similarly, the number of producers dropped by 80% in 40 years.

New trends: the latest tech meets tradition

In these circumstances, new trends have been born from local communities like Kyoto, which once contained a flourishing monozukuri industry. “Yuuhari” is a new version of “kiyomizu-yaki” ceramic, which is made of Cellulose NanoFiber (CNF), while the traditional product is made of clay. The inventor, who had struggled with the decline of the traditional ceramic industry, wanted to invent something novel and sustainable to gain market acceptance, where plastic-made glasses occupy the majority. CNF is considered to be an alternative to plastic and a way to use tinned wood and agricultural waste. CNF-made ceramic is good not only for carrying on the tradition but also for sustainably utilizing natural resources.

“Monozukuri” as a sustainable way of manufacturing

The definition of monozukuri varies depending on people, as mentioned before, and it could also vary according to times. Given that monozukuri has implied craftsmanship and outstanding technique for a long time, it could also mean sustainable manufacturing in the era to come. Although there is no clear definition of monozukuri, the key concept has not changed: showing respect for people and things.